Yang, Han Lead China Past Puerto Rico in Tight Contest
Shuyu Yang orchestrated the People's Republic of China's narrow 75-72 victory over Puerto Rico in a hard-fought FIBA Women's World Cup clash at the Berlin Arena.
China held a slim one-point lead at halftime, 41-40, but Puerto Rico managed to regain the advantage entering the fourth quarter, leading 53-52. However, China mounted a decisive fourth-quarter surge, outscoring Puerto Rico 23-19 in the final frame to secure the win.
The Chinese side showcased superior shooting efficiency, hitting 48% of their field goals compared to Puerto Rico's 40%, and received a significant boost from their bench, which contributed 22 points. Xu Han was a dominant force inside, posting a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Yang complemented her 15 points with a game-high 11 assists, also a double-double, orchestrating the offense. Despite a stellar 24-point, 9-rebound, 7-assist effort from Puerto Rico's Trinity San Antonio, and near-perfect 90% free-throw shooting, the team couldn't overcome China's balanced attack and 25 total assists.
This win serves as a significant statement for China's momentum in the global tournament.